Lille interested in Monaco’s €25m-rated forward George Ilenikhena | OneFootball

AS Monaco forward George Ilenikhena (19) is the subject of interest from Ligue 1 rivals Lille OSC, according to a report from RMC Sport journalist Fabrice Hawkins. 

The centre-forward is playing a bit-part role at the Principality club, despite playing 20 games in all competitions this season, scoring four goals. He has yet to start a match in the UEFA Champions League, whilst he has started just three games in Ligue 1. 

It is no secret that Monaco need to sell a player before July in order to avoid being at risk of UEFA sanctions. It is within this context that Lille have emerged as a suitor. Les Dogues are in the market for a striker after Hamza Igamane suffered an ACL injury during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). It leaves Olivier Giroud as the only recognisable centre-forward option. 

However, LOSC may be dissuaded by Monaco’s asking price, which stands at €25m. That valuation makes any deal “complex”, Hawkins understands. There are also other names on Lille’s shortlist.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle